The Carney administration is strengthening ties with Beijing as the Chinese government discloses a “frank” discussion on military matters with Canadian officials recently. This meeting, held in Canada on September 4, comes after a period of strained diplomacy and is causing apprehension among Conservatives, who oppose military collaboration with China.
According to China’s defense ministry, the two nations conducted their fifth defense coordination dialogue last week. Canada’s Defense Department later confirmed the report. The dialogue involved a candid and thorough exchange on international and regional issues, along with a commitment to enhance practical exchanges and cooperation between the military forces, fostering mutual understanding and trust.
Since 2018, Ottawa has refrained from engaging in military exercises or cooperation with the People’s Liberation Army due to a diplomatic dispute involving the detention of two Canadians by Beijing. The Chinese Embassy in Ottawa referred to the meeting as the resumption of military talks after an eight-year hiatus, although Canada’s Department of National Defence did not endorse this characterization.
The Defense Department released a statement emphasizing the commitment to safeguarding Canadians’ safety and Canada’s strategic interests. It highlighted the government’s approach of establishing boundaries in relations with China, outlining specific areas for deeper cooperation while excluding defense cooperation.
Despite these assurances, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed skepticism, referencing Prime Minister Carney’s previous statements identifying China as Canada’s primary global threat. Poilievre criticized the resumption of defense coordination talks with Beijing, questioning the lack of transparency regarding these discussions.
In early 2024, Canadian military officials expressed a desire for more open communication with their Chinese counterparts following an incident in 2023 involving a high-altitude balloon that crossed American and Canadian airspace from China. The Canadian military official responsible for liaising with countries like China indicated efforts to move from contentious dialogues to rebuilding relationships.
China’s ambassador at the time pointed out challenges in improving relations, citing Canada’s navigation of navy ships through the Taiwan Strait and advocating for mutual respect in diplomatic interactions.